What education and/or training do you have that relates to your work?
Most of our continuing education in the garage door business comes from our suppliers, the garage door manufacturers and equipment makers. We attend trade shows and meet with our vendors who are providing new equipment to the market place. We always try to stay updated with the latest
How did you get started doing this type of work?
I grew up in the garage door business and except for a 4 year hitch in the Air Force I have been in the business all my life.
What types of customers have you worked with?
The most common is spring repair, followed by cable replacement and opener repair. The least common is a garage door replacement.
What advice would you give a customer looking to hire a provider in your area of work?
Some garage door repairs can be quoted over the phone. Other repairs require that the contractor be on site to be able to quote a price. If a contractor can't give a firm price over the telephone, be aware that he may have good justification for his action. If he wants to visit your home, without charge, to prepare a quote for you, let him.
What questions should customers think through before talking to professionals about their project?
Most garage door technicians get started in the business working as subcontractors for home builders. This gives them a basis from which they are able to also provide repair and replacement services for consumers. With the present building slump more companies are looking to serve consumers. This raises the level of competition while it drives some contractors out of business. When dealing with a contractor who offers a very low price, be suspicious that he can't cover his overhead without taking some serious short cuts or employing "bait and switch" pricing.
